Reframed, Part 4: Reframing Suffering

Grant Fishbook, Lead Teaching Pastor

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.
Always be prepared to give an answer 
to everyone who asks you to
give the reason for the hope that you have.
But do this with gentleness and respect…
1 Peter 3:15

The Tough Truth about Suffering

Suffering was of God’s original design (Genesis 1-2)

Suffering is (John 16:33 and James 1:2)

Christians are from suffering (2 Corinthians 12:8-10, Isaiah 53)

The Origins of Suffering
Some of the suffering we endure is…

Because of sinful decisions (Galatians 6:7-8)

The result of another person’s sin against us (Genesis 37:18–20)

The result of other people’s sinful decisions (Genesis 6:5–8)

Because we live in a world that was (Genesis 3 and Romans 8:22–23)

The result of for those who love God (John 10:10 and Ephesians 2:1–2)

Where is God in my suffering?

(Psalm 23 and Deuteronomy 8:15–16)

What’s good about suffering?

Suffering draws me (John 9:1–38)

Suffering (1 Peter 5:8–10 and Romans 5:3–4)

Suffering reveals my true (Job 23:10 and Psalm 139:23–24)

Suffering softens my heart toward (2 Corinthians 1:3–5)

Small Group Questions

1. What is your favorite family tradition in the fall season?
2. How would you define suffering?
3. Do any of the truths about suffering and its origin surprise you? Which one, and why?
4. How have you seen God show up for you in your suffering?
5. What has been good about your most challenging moments?
6. How can we pray for you right now and throughout the week?